Timeless Romance at the Carolina Inn: Camryn & Christopher’s Wedding Day

Camryn and Christopher’s wedding at the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, NC, was nothing short of magical. Their love story began as high school sweethearts and grew into something timeless, with nearly seven years of cherished memories together. When Camryn first reached out to us, she described their relationship as "classic young lovers," and their wedding day reflected that beautifully—full of elegance, meaningful details, and heartfelt moments.

From the excitement of getting ready to the laughter-filled moments with their loved ones, Camryn and Christopher’s day was a perfect blend of romance and celebration. Surrounded by the Carolina Inn’s historic charm, their wedding unfolded like a storybook come to life.

The Morning Glow: Pre-Ceremony Elegance

The day began with Camryn preparing in one of the Carolina Inn’s stunning suites, where the soft morning light brought her wedding details to life. Courtney, one of Fancy This Photography’s talented photographers, has a remarkable ability to capture these quiet, meaningful moments with precision and artistry. From the delicate flat-lay of Camryn’s bridal accessories—her sparkling tiara, custom invitation suite, and perfume—to the hanging shot of her off-the-shoulder gown framed perfectly in the window, each detail was thoughtfully documented.

One of the sweetest moments from the morning was Camryn’s mother helping her into her gown. Against the backdrop of floral wallpaper and the Carolina Inn’s iconic black-and-white tiled floors, the images of their shared smiles and laughter radiated warmth and connection. Moments like these, where the love between family members shines, are what make Courtney’s work stand out—she finds beauty in the quiet, intimate moments.

As Camryn finished getting ready, she paused to adjust her earrings in the soft morning light. The serene expression on her face, paired with the glow from the window, captured the anticipation and excitement of the day ahead. These quiet reflections, framed with Courtney’s keen eye for light and composition, are the moments that set our photography apart.

A Timeless Venue for a Timeless Love

The Carolina Inn provided the perfect backdrop for Camryn and Christopher’s celebration. Known for its Southern charm and timeless architecture, the venue’s rich history complemented their classic style beautifully. From the lush greenery surrounding the property to the elegance of the ceremony space, every detail was thoughtfully chosen to reflect their vision.

Their talented vendor team brought everything together seamlessly:

• Planning: @kasteventsandco

• Florals: @trebellainc

• Beauty: @peachcowgirlbeauty

• Video: @lionfish_films

Trebella Florals created breathtaking arrangements of white, blush, and peach blooms, adding a soft and romantic touch to both the ceremony and reception spaces. The day flowed effortlessly, thanks to the incredible coordination of Kast Events and Co., while Lionfish Films preserved every heartfelt moment in motion.

A Few of Our Favorite Moments

• The First Look: Christopher’s expression when he saw Camryn for the first time was unforgettable. His reaction said everything words couldn’t.

• The Bridal Portraits: Camryn looked stunning in her off-the-shoulder gown, standing in the Carolina Inn’s iconic hallway. Her smile radiated joy and confidence, perfectly encapsulating her excitement for the day ahead.

• The Ceremony: Set against a backdrop of lush greenery and soft florals, their vows felt intimate despite being surrounded by their loved ones.

• The Reception: With elegant floral centerpieces by Tre Bella and a classic black-and-white dance floor, the reception was a celebration of love and connection. The couple’s first dance was a highlight, and Courtney’s images captured the movement and emotion effortlessly.

Courtney’s Artistic Touch

What makes Courtney’s work so extraordinary is her ability to blend classic elegance with genuine emotion. Her photography style aligns perfectly with the romantic, timeless aesthetic of Fancy This Photography while still showcasing her unique artistic perspective. She brings a calm presence to every wedding day, creating a relaxed atmosphere that allows couples to be their authentic selves. Whether it’s the smallest detail or the biggest moment, Courtney’s talent lies in capturing the soul of the day.

At Fancy This Photography, we pride ourselves on being a team of photographers who each bring something special to the table. While our individual styles add variety, our collective focus remains the same: creating romantic, authentic, and timeless images for couples who value artistry and connection.

Camryn & Christopher: A Note of Gratitude

Camryn and Christopher, thank you for trusting Fancy This Photography to capture your wedding day. Your love story, rooted in the sweetness of young love and the strength of years together, was an inspiration to document. We’re honored to have been a part of such a meaningful chapter in your journey and wish you a lifetime of happiness and adventure.

Michelle & Brian’s Chapel Hill Lavender Oaks Farm Wedding

There’s something truly magical about a fall wedding in North Carolina, especially when it takes place at the beautiful Lavender Oaks Farm in Chapel Hill. Michelle and Brian's wedding day was filled with love, laughter, and stunning scenery that made every moment unforgettable. Captured by our talented partner photographer, Courtney Collins, this wedding showcased not only the beauty of Lavender Oaks Farm but also the unique charm of Chapel Hill weddings.

The Elegant Details: Invitations, Rings, and Personal Touches

The detail shots from Michelle and Brian's wedding at Lavender Oaks Farm were beautifully curated to capture the essence of their style and the sentimental touches they chose for their big day. The invitation suite, styled against a soft blue backdrop, set the tone with delicate florals and a wax seal, adding a touch of elegance and personal charm to the couple’s wedding aesthetic. These intricate details helped tell the story of their day, bringing an element of sophistication and grace.

Their wedding rings, photographed alongside the invitation and heirloom pieces, reflected not only the commitment they made to each other but also the timeless nature of their love. A close-up shot of Michelle’s Loeffler Randall shoes highlighted the elegance of her bridal style, with shimmering details that added a hint of glamour to her overall look. These thoughtfully captured details bring out the beauty in every small moment, preserving them for Michelle and Brian to cherish in years to come. Each image showcases Fancy This Photography's dedication to capturing the unique story of each couple through both grand and intimate details.

Honoring Vietnamese Wedding Traditions

One of the most special parts of Michelle and Brian's wedding was the incorporation of Vietnamese tradition. During some bridesmaids’ photos and later at the reception, Michelle changed into a stunning red Vietnamese gown adorned with intricate gold details. In Vietnamese culture, the color red symbolizes joy, prosperity, and good fortune, making it a popular choice for traditional wedding attire. Michelle's choice to wear this dress was a beautiful homage to her heritage, blending the rich traditions of her culture with the elegance of a modern wedding.

Courtney’s photos captured Michelle surrounded by her bridesmaids in the elegant red dress, a moment that beautifully bridged cultural tradition with the joy of her wedding day. It was a touching reminder of the importance of family and tradition in celebrating love.

A Beautiful Ceremony Amidst Lavender Fields

Lavender Oaks Farm is one of Chapel Hill's most beloved wedding venues, known for its picturesque landscapes and rustic elegance. Michelle and Brian exchanged vows beneath a romantic, floral-adorned pergola, surrounded by their closest family and friends. The lush lavender fields and towering oak trees created a serene and timeless atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for their heartfelt ceremony.

With flowers by The English Garden in Raleigh, the pergola was adorned in soft pastel hues that complemented Michelle’s lace gown and Brian’s light blue suit. Every detail was thoughtfully chosen, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings while adding a romantic and refined touch to the ceremony decor.

Elegant Bridal Party Moments

Michelle and her bridesmaids brought a pop of color to the day with their gorgeous pastel blue dresses. Each bridesmaid looked stunning, creating a cohesive and elegant look that matched the serene tones of Lavender Oaks Farm in autumn. The groomsmen, coordinated in stylish suits, added a touch of sophistication, and together, the bridal party looked effortlessly elegant.

Courtney’s skillful eye for detail captured not only the bridal party’s style but also their close connections, making every photo feel genuine and warm. These moments are a testament to the love and support surrounding Michelle and Brian on their special day.

Reception Details and Vendor Highlights

Michelle and Brian's reception was a true reflection of their personalities, with every detail carefully curated by Southern Skies Events to create a welcoming and romantic atmosphere. Rocky Top Caters provided a delicious feast for the guests, who dined under the beautiful wooden beams of Lavender Oaks Farm’s barn, all illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight and twinkling lights.

The tables, adorned with soft florals by The English Garden and elegant rentals from Curated Events, created a refined yet cozy setting. One of the highlights was the cake, crafted by Mrs. Corbetts Cakes, a beautiful multi-tiered creation decorated with delicate pastel floral details and touches of gold. It was as much a treat for the eyes as it was for the palate, and Courtney captured the joy on Michelle and Brian’s faces as they cut into it.

Dow Oak Events kept the celebration lively with music that had guests dancing the night away, while White Elm Films was there to capture every laugh and joyful tear on video, preserving these precious memories for years to come.

A Sparkling Send-Off and Timeless Memories

As the night drew to a close, Michelle and Brian were sent off with a sparkling farewell, surrounded by friends and family. Holding sparklers, they shared a final kiss under the stars, marking the perfect end to their unforgettable wedding day. This romantic send-off added a magical touch to their wedding album, providing a timeless memory of their first day as a married couple.

Why Lavender Oaks Farm is a Dream for Wedding Photography in Chapel Hill, NC

Lavender Oaks Farm offers endless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photography. Its rustic barn, lavender fields, and elegant ceremony sites make it a top choice for couples in Chapel Hill. If you're looking for a Chapel Hill wedding photographer who can capture the essence of your special day, look no further than Fancy This Photography. We specialize in creating beautiful, candid moments that tell the story of your love.

Michelle and Brian’s wedding is a wonderful reminder of why we love being wedding photographers in Chapel Hill, NC at Fancy This Photography. Every wedding is unique, and we are honored to capture these special memories that our couples will treasure for a lifetime.

If you're planning a wedding at Lavender Oaks Farm or anywhere in the Chapel Hill area, we’d love to be a part of your big day. Contact Fancy This Photography to learn more about our Chapel Hill wedding photography packages and how we can make your wedding day unforgettable.

UNC Chapel Hill Wedding at The Carolina Inn

Donna Steinbacher and Christian Caveness celebrated their union with a beautiful UNC Chapel Hill wedding at The Carolina Inn in July 2023. Even the sweltering summer heat couldn’t dim the sparkle of this special day. Most of the wedding festivities took place within the cool Southern sanctuary of The Carolina Inn. Fancy This Photography owner and founder, Nikki Whitt Belch, led from behind the lens with support from collaborator Sarah Martin. They used the combo of a Nikon D750 and Nikon Z6II mirrorless camera.

For photography enthusiasts curious about the technical details, a mirrorless camera adds distinct style to images. DSLR cameras rely on mirrors to reflect images into viewfinders, whereas mirrorless cameras capture moments through electronic viewfinders, offering a unique perspective. At Fancy This Photography, we pride ourselves on providing couples with high-end, professional wedding photography. Hiring a professional photographer to document your wedding is essential because their expertise ensures that your memories are preserved. Fancy This Photography team’s knowledge of composition, lighting, and storytelling will make your wedding photos unique and timeless.

Ceremony at St. Thomas More Catholic Church

The wedding photo journey begins as Donna and Christian get ready for the day with loved ones at The Carolina Inn. St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Chapel Hill set the stage for a traditional Catholic wedding ceremony, beautifully incorporated within Mass. The short 8-minute drive from The Carolina Inn easily connected these two iconic Chapel Hill wedding venues.

This colorful UNC Chapel Hill wedding at The Carolina Inn was planned by Catherine Langhart of La Fête. With 12 bridesmaids and five groomsmen, Donna and Christian's wedding party was a ball of fun. Their positive energy created sincere moments for Fancy This Photography to capture. The vibrant floral arrangements, designed by Tre Bella, added a burst of color to this wedding photo gallery. We think Donna and Christian’s wedding at The Carolina Inn perfectly represents the spirit of a southern summertime celebration. From bodacious bouquets to playful pocket squares, altar arrangements to table centerpieces, every detail was a slay.

As you continue to scroll, get lost in the visual story of Donna and Christian’s wedding day. It was an honor for Fancy This Photography to document their stunning UNC Chapel Hill wedding at The Carolina Inn.

Getting Ready for Romance - UNC Chapel Hill Wedding at The Carolina Inn

Fancy This Photography loves to document intimate getting ready moments shared between couples and their closest friends and family. The gorgeous guest rooms and suites of The Carolina Inn are the perfect backdrop for wedding preparation pictures. Each room is a treasure trove of details. Swoon with us over colorfully patterned wallpaper, whimsical window panes, and cozy furnishings. This Chapel hill hotel offers 185 romantic rooms and seven luxury suites. Every room is equipped with refrigerators—perfect for storing mimosa and breakfast supplies—along with bath toiletries and flat-screen televisions.

In 2023, The Carolina Inn received modern updates while keeping its distinctive southern vintage vibe. For wedding guests who stay here, the raves are inevitable. This Chapel Hill hotel has an authentic soul and comfortable accommodations. The rooms and suites provide a clean and peaceful space for getting ready and resting. Friendly staff members go above and beyond, bending over backward to cater to the needs of your wedding party.

Stepping into this historic gem is like entering a world of elegance and charm. The interior design and architecture honor the hotel's history, creating a backdrop for countless photo opportunities. Each room tells a story, surrounding you with beauty as you prepare for one of the biggest days of your life. The Carolina Inn is more than a wedding venue; it's a window into the past and the future.

First Looks - UNC Chapel Hill Wedding at The Carolina Inn

Donna and Christian's UNC Chapel Hill Wedding at The Carolina Inn featured two unforgettable first looks. The first one unfolded in the hotel's main lobby, where Donna shared a moment with her father. The emotion on his face as he saw his daughter in her wedding dress was priceless.

The second first look was between Donna and Christian. It took place in the legendary hallway of The Carolina Inn. You know the one–where natural light bathes miles of timeless black-and-white-checkered marble floors. As Donna tapped Christian's shoulder, the vintage lantern hanging overhead gave the scene a warm glow. Splashes of color from greenery and a Carolina blue-painted bench added to these romantic first look photos.

The dramatic length of this hallway adds excitement and anticipation to first look images. After their first look, we took more individual and couple portraits of Donna and Christian walking through the hallway. We even took our cameras outside, which let us frame cool shots of the couple from a distance as they cozied up on a bench.

Chapel Hill Wedding Ceremony at St. Thomas More Catholic Church

Donna and Christian tied the knot in the sacred sanctuary of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Chapel Hill. This local landmark set the tone for timeless vows. Couples who want to get married here must contact the church office at 919-942-1040, nine months in advance. Wedding ceremonies and rehearsals at St. Thomas More Catholic Church are officiated by a priest or deacon. St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Chapel Hill has a unique "sponsor couple program." Donna and Christian were paired with married members of the church, and received guidance and support as they prepared for marriage.

Couples can use flower and decor stands placed in front of the sanctuary's columns or at the foot of each candle set. Tre Bella's artistry came to life with colorful arrangements that complemented the warm ambiance of St. Thomas More Catholic Church. Our Fancy This Photography cameras ate up the juxtaposition of colorful florals with the sanctuary's stained glass mural.

The church has a few wedding guidelines—no throwing flower petals, rice, or bird seed. As wedding photographers, we check on what is permitted, always respecting a couple’s venue. Discretion is key. We often limit the use of flash or anything that might disrupt the wedding ceremony or mass. Fancy This Photography is committed to capturing your entire ceremony. It starts with the anticipatory moments before the couple enters the ceremony space to joyful newlywed exits. This way, our wedding galleries promise a rich story of candid and formal photos that thoroughly document this special milestone.

Wedding Photos Under The Carolina Inn’s Porte-cochère

The Carolina Inn has a fierce porte-cochère. Do you know what that is? We also had to do a quick Google search. A porte-cochère is a grand entrance to a building or courtyard, through which carriages or cars can enter from the street. The dramatic archway provides people protection from the elements and a cool wedding photo frame.

Fancy This Photography loves to capture couples and wedding parties beneath The Carolina Inn’s porte-cochère. Donna’s bridesmaids slayed in elegant green dresses and Christian’s groomsmen looked snatched in navy blue tuxedos and black bow ties. The Carolina Inn’s brick pathways, black window shutters and fabulous porte-cochère create a sensational backdrop for wedding photos.

UNC Chapel Hill Wedding at The Carolina Inn

Donna and Christian's UNC Chapel Hill wedding at The Carolina Inn was held in the Hill Ballroom, the largest space in the venue. The Hill Ballroom features 14-foot ceilings and crystal chandeliers, creating an impressive reception setting. Architectural details add to the southern charm. I’m begging you to take a moment and look up at the ceiling!

A memorable detail from their wedding reception was a custom beer can design made by a friend. The couple also opted for a crowd-pleasing late-night snack – pizza and subs. These choices added a personal and practical element to their reception. Fancy This Photography documented every detail, capturing the uniqueness of Donna and Christian's wedding in each shot.

Planning a UNC Chapel Hill wedding at The Carolina Inn? Consider booking Fancy This Photography – a seasoned vendor at this historic gem of a wedding venue. Proudly featured on The Carolina Inn's list of recommended wedding photographers, we humbly bring our experience to the table. For a deeper dive into more real weddings, explore the blog links below. Let Fancy This Photography tell your wedding story with authenticity and artistry.

Sarah & Alec’s Wedding at The Carolina Inn - 2023

Leslie & Dan’s Wedding at The Carolina Inn - 2021

Meet The Vendors

Photographer // Fancy This Photography 

Planner // Catherine Langhart of Events by La Fête

Ceremony // St. Thomas More Catholic Church

Venue // The Carolina Inn

Videography // Dean Garris Films

Reception Music // DJ Randy Bennett

Florist // Tre Bella

Cake // S. Richardson Cakes

Hair and Makeup // Perfection By Patricia